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Depay can be as good as Robben - Cocu
Memphis Depay is destined to become as good as Bayern Munich and Netherlands attacker Arjen Robben, according to PSV coach Phillip Cocu, who thinks his star player will be sold in the summer.
The 21-year-old forward caught the eye of football fans outside of the Eredivisie last year by playing a part in Louis van Gaal's Dutch team which reached the World Cup semi-finals.
Depay has continued his fantastic form in 2014-15 and is the top goalscorer in the Eredivisie, with PSV having only failed to win in three out of 23 of their league games.
Ahead of Thursday's Europa League last-32 clash with Zenit St Petersburg, Cocu mused that the reported Manchester United and Tottenham target could become as prolific as veteran Dutch winger Robben."I think he can be as good as Robben," he told reporters. "They are different players, but they are both fast and have a good shot.
"And both always have the desire to improve; neither player hides from training, which is a good sign for Depay.
"It's unfortunate that he might leave in the summer but, on the other hand, we must be proud as a club because we have raised him."At some point, it becomes clear that he is ready for the next step. And yes, I think he's going to leave PSV after this season."
Depay could command a fee upwards of €25 million from interested clubs hoping to break his contract - which is set to run until 2018 - at the Philips Stadion.
Memphis Depay is destined to become as good as Bayern Munich and Netherlands attacker Arjen Robben, according to PSV coach Phillip Cocu, who thinks his star player will be sold in the summer.
The 21-year-old forward caught the eye of football fans outside of the Eredivisie last year by playing a part in Louis van Gaal's Dutch team which reached the World Cup semi-finals.
Depay has continued his fantastic form in 2014-15 and is the top goalscorer in the Eredivisie, with PSV having only failed to win in three out of 23 of their league games.
Ahead of Thursday's Europa League last-32 clash with Zenit St Petersburg, Cocu mused that the reported Manchester United and Tottenham target could become as prolific as veteran Dutch winger Robben."I think he can be as good as Robben," he told reporters. "They are different players, but they are both fast and have a good shot.
"And both always have the desire to improve; neither player hides from training, which is a good sign for Depay.
"It's unfortunate that he might leave in the summer but, on the other hand, we must be proud as a club because we have raised him."At some point, it becomes clear that he is ready for the next step. And yes, I think he's going to leave PSV after this season."
Depay could command a fee upwards of €25 million from interested clubs hoping to break his contract - which is set to run until 2018 - at the Philips Stadion.
Sterling can be England's best - Bilic
Besiktas manager Slaven Bilic believes Liverpool attacker Raheem Sterling can become the best player in England in the coming years.
Sterling has become a key figure at the Reds under Brendan Rodgers, making 35 appearances in all competitions this season and scoring nine goals, while also providing six assists.
Sterling won Europe's Golden Boy award earlier this season - a prize for the best player on the continent under the age of 21.
And Bilic, whose side visit Anfield in the Europa League on Thursday, feels Sterling has all the talent to succeed at the highest level, though he insists he still needs to work on his finishing.
"He can be the next big player in English football. The best. He’s got the speed and the confidence," he told The Sun.
"He’s not the strongest but he’s everything but afraid. He goes into tackles and is very strong. Most definitely he can be. He’s not yet but he can be and he should be.
"His finishing needs to improve, yeah, but you know what? His legs are too quick to be calm in front of the keeper. Sometimes he should slow down his strikes.
"He’s coming into most of his chances in lighting speed and should slow down. It comes with experience. It came to Thierry Henry. He will never be like Robin van Persie. Sterling is not a typical goalscorer.
"He’s young. He’s going to improve his finishing, everything. But whether he’s going to be Alan Shearer I don’t know."
Besiktas manager Slaven Bilic believes Liverpool attacker Raheem Sterling can become the best player in England in the coming years.
Sterling has become a key figure at the Reds under Brendan Rodgers, making 35 appearances in all competitions this season and scoring nine goals, while also providing six assists.
Sterling won Europe's Golden Boy award earlier this season - a prize for the best player on the continent under the age of 21.
And Bilic, whose side visit Anfield in the Europa League on Thursday, feels Sterling has all the talent to succeed at the highest level, though he insists he still needs to work on his finishing.
"He can be the next big player in English football. The best. He’s got the speed and the confidence," he told The Sun.
"He’s not the strongest but he’s everything but afraid. He goes into tackles and is very strong. Most definitely he can be. He’s not yet but he can be and he should be.
"His finishing needs to improve, yeah, but you know what? His legs are too quick to be calm in front of the keeper. Sometimes he should slow down his strikes.
"He’s coming into most of his chances in lighting speed and should slow down. It comes with experience. It came to Thierry Henry. He will never be like Robin van Persie. Sterling is not a typical goalscorer.
"He’s young. He’s going to improve his finishing, everything. But whether he’s going to be Alan Shearer I don’t know."
Van Gaal issued warning after FA charge
Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has been warned by the Football Association (FA) after he was found to have breached rules regarding media comments.
The Dutchman was charged with bringing the game into disrepute after the club's 0-0 draw with Cambridge United in the FA Cup third round, having suggested "everything was against" his side, including the referee.
He subsequently appealed the decision, confirming that he was "very disappointed" with the FA's decision to bring action against him, and he has now avoided a fine, with the FA instead issuing the former Netherlands coach with a warning.
"Following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing on Wednesday 18 February 2015, Louis van Gaal has been warned as to his future conduct after he was found to have breached FA Rules in relation to media comments," read a statement from the governing body.
"The Manchester United manager denied that his comments which followed The FA Cup Fourth Round tie against Cambridge United on 23 January 2015 alleged and/or implied bias on the part of the match referee, and/or brought the game into disrepute."
Van Gaal's side defeated Cambridge 3-0 in the replay of the first tie, and subsequently defeated Preston in midweek. They will face Arsenal in the quarter-finals.
Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has been warned by the Football Association (FA) after he was found to have breached rules regarding media comments.
The Dutchman was charged with bringing the game into disrepute after the club's 0-0 draw with Cambridge United in the FA Cup third round, having suggested "everything was against" his side, including the referee.
He subsequently appealed the decision, confirming that he was "very disappointed" with the FA's decision to bring action against him, and he has now avoided a fine, with the FA instead issuing the former Netherlands coach with a warning.
"Following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing on Wednesday 18 February 2015, Louis van Gaal has been warned as to his future conduct after he was found to have breached FA Rules in relation to media comments," read a statement from the governing body.
"The Manchester United manager denied that his comments which followed The FA Cup Fourth Round tie against Cambridge United on 23 January 2015 alleged and/or implied bias on the part of the match referee, and/or brought the game into disrepute."
Van Gaal's side defeated Cambridge 3-0 in the replay of the first tie, and subsequently defeated Preston in midweek. They will face Arsenal in the quarter-finals.
Benitez: I could leave Italy for Turkey
Rafael Benitez has once again refused to commit himself to Napoli beyond the end of the season, revealing that he is open to continuing his coaching career in Turkey.
The Spaniard, who will be out of contract this summer, is currently preparing his side for the first leg of their Europa League last-32 tie with Trabzonspor at the Huseyin Avni Aker Stadium.
As a result, Benitez was asked on the eve of the game if he would consider taking a job in Turkey if he decides against extending his stay at the San Paolo.
"I'm happy [at Napoli] right now but we'll see what happens in the future," he told Hurriyet. "I always say: never say never."I was contacted by Besiktas before going to Liverpool [in 2004]. They offered me a significant salary but only a one-year contract, whereas Liverpool offered five.
"There was also Galatasaray in 2013, before I signed with Napoli, and also in that instance, the offer was very favourable."Turning his attention to the task at hand, Benitez admitted that he is anticipating at tough test in Turkey.
"Trabzonspor are a tough squad," he added. "They play great football and we know that this will be a difficult game for us."
Rafael Benitez has once again refused to commit himself to Napoli beyond the end of the season, revealing that he is open to continuing his coaching career in Turkey.
The Spaniard, who will be out of contract this summer, is currently preparing his side for the first leg of their Europa League last-32 tie with Trabzonspor at the Huseyin Avni Aker Stadium.
As a result, Benitez was asked on the eve of the game if he would consider taking a job in Turkey if he decides against extending his stay at the San Paolo.
"I'm happy [at Napoli] right now but we'll see what happens in the future," he told Hurriyet. "I always say: never say never."I was contacted by Besiktas before going to Liverpool [in 2004]. They offered me a significant salary but only a one-year contract, whereas Liverpool offered five.
"There was also Galatasaray in 2013, before I signed with Napoli, and also in that instance, the offer was very favourable."Turning his attention to the task at hand, Benitez admitted that he is anticipating at tough test in Turkey.
"Trabzonspor are a tough squad," he added. "They play great football and we know that this will be a difficult game for us."
Courtois brilliance tough on Cech, admits Terry
John Terry admits that Thibaut Courtois' consistent excellence has put Petr Cech in a difficult situation this season but insists that the 32-year-old has not voiced any desire to leave Chelsea in the summer.
Jose Mourinho restored Courtois to his starting XI for Tuesday's Champions League round-of-16 first-leg clash with Paris Saint-Germain despite seeing Cech make two superb saves from Romelu Lukaku to help secure a vital three Premier League points against Everton on February 11.
Courtois repaid his manager's faith with a series of magnificent stops in a frantic second half at Parc des Princes as Edinson Cavani's cool header on 54 minutes cancelled out Branislav Ivanovic's first-half opener.
Speaking after the match, Terry was full of praise for both goalkeepers, declaring himself relieved that choosing between them is Mourinho's job rather than his own.
"He's different class," the Chelsea captain replied when asked about Courtois' performance.
"It's unlucky for big Pete because he made two unbelievable saves in the week from Lukaku against Everton but he's been unbelievable professionally around the club.
"I've seen a lot of players in my time throw their toys out of the pram but he's been different class for the team, which has been important for the squad. The manager stresses the importance of the team coming first and he's done that.
"We've got the two best goalkeepers in the world, in my opinion, both fighting for one place. It's difficult and you can't keep them both happy. The manager does it but I don't know how. They both want to play all the time but they're at the top of their game."
Cech's demotion to backup goalkeeper has prompted persistent speculation that he will seek a move away from Stamford Bridge at the end of the season, but Terry is adamant that the subject has not been broached within the squad.
"We've not even spoken about it and, credit to him, he's not rumbled the dressing-room, he's been really professional," the 34-year-old added.
"He knows he's been a top keeper and he still is. He's got a lot to give and he's still fighting for his place, which is great. He's not given up and said 'it's yours, Thibaut', and when he's come in he's been brilliant and given the manager food for thought."
John Terry admits that Thibaut Courtois' consistent excellence has put Petr Cech in a difficult situation this season but insists that the 32-year-old has not voiced any desire to leave Chelsea in the summer.
Jose Mourinho restored Courtois to his starting XI for Tuesday's Champions League round-of-16 first-leg clash with Paris Saint-Germain despite seeing Cech make two superb saves from Romelu Lukaku to help secure a vital three Premier League points against Everton on February 11.
Courtois repaid his manager's faith with a series of magnificent stops in a frantic second half at Parc des Princes as Edinson Cavani's cool header on 54 minutes cancelled out Branislav Ivanovic's first-half opener.
Speaking after the match, Terry was full of praise for both goalkeepers, declaring himself relieved that choosing between them is Mourinho's job rather than his own.
"He's different class," the Chelsea captain replied when asked about Courtois' performance.
"It's unlucky for big Pete because he made two unbelievable saves in the week from Lukaku against Everton but he's been unbelievable professionally around the club.
"I've seen a lot of players in my time throw their toys out of the pram but he's been different class for the team, which has been important for the squad. The manager stresses the importance of the team coming first and he's done that.
"We've got the two best goalkeepers in the world, in my opinion, both fighting for one place. It's difficult and you can't keep them both happy. The manager does it but I don't know how. They both want to play all the time but they're at the top of their game."
Cech's demotion to backup goalkeeper has prompted persistent speculation that he will seek a move away from Stamford Bridge at the end of the season, but Terry is adamant that the subject has not been broached within the squad.
"We've not even spoken about it and, credit to him, he's not rumbled the dressing-room, he's been really professional," the 34-year-old added.
"He knows he's been a top keeper and he still is. He's got a lot to give and he's still fighting for his place, which is great. He's not given up and said 'it's yours, Thibaut', and when he's come in he's been brilliant and given the manager food for thought."
We wanted to sign Matuidi for Manchester United, says Neville
Phil Neville has admitted that Manchester United tried to sign Blaise Matuidi at the beginning of last season.
The former England defender was sent to scout the all-action midfielder - who starred for PSG in their 1-1 draw with Chelsea in the Champions League on Tuesday - in his role as David Moyes' assistant manager.
And Neville regrets that United were unable to get the deal done.
“We wanted to sign him. We'd heard his contract was running out and we were really interested in him”, he told the BBC.
"Then he signed a contract with PSG, which was obviously something we weren't happy with.
"We were looking at it at Man Utd last year to inject a little bit of energy. He runs from box to box and he carried the team forward simply through his energy on that left channel."
Phil Neville has admitted that Manchester United tried to sign Blaise Matuidi at the beginning of last season.
The former England defender was sent to scout the all-action midfielder - who starred for PSG in their 1-1 draw with Chelsea in the Champions League on Tuesday - in his role as David Moyes' assistant manager.
And Neville regrets that United were unable to get the deal done.
“We wanted to sign him. We'd heard his contract was running out and we were really interested in him”, he told the BBC.
"Then he signed a contract with PSG, which was obviously something we weren't happy with.
"We were looking at it at Man Utd last year to inject a little bit of energy. He runs from box to box and he carried the team forward simply through his energy on that left channel."
Dietmar Hamann has called on Arsenal and Manchester United to break the bank to sign Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski.
The Poland international was left on the bench for the majority of his side's 0-0 Champions League last-16 draw with Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday, only being introduced with 15 minutes of the first leg remaining.
And Hamann believes that the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool should now react and attempt to sign what could be an unsettled Lewandowski at Bayern.
"If you look at Manchester United, I think they could do with a Lewandowski," he told Sky Sports.
"At the moment United, Liverpool and even Arsenal... Lewandowski is tailor-made for them. He came to Bayern Munich on a free last year but if there was an opportunity to get him out I'd break the bank for him because I think he's the best No.9 in the world.
"It' a big question mark. There's a question mark about the manager. There are still no assurances that he will be there, even though he's got a contract.
"I think the same goes for Lewandowski because the way the team plays under Guardiola, I don't think it suits him. He was tailor-made for Dortmund and I think he's tailor-made for two or three English teams where he can play on the counter attack on big pitches where he can run in behind.
"He needs to be involved in the game. In Bayern Munich he simply doesn’t get enough balls with the way they play. You need a poacher in Bayern Munich, somebody who scores his goals in the box, rather than a Lewandowski who does everything."
And Hamann is convinced that Lewandowski will have been annoyed at his role in the last couple of games, with the former Dortmund star having been shunted out to the wing for the win over Hamburg before being named as a substitute in Ukraine.
He added: "I can only imagine his head is not in the right place at the moment because if you go to Shakhtar in a knockout game he's the only recognised striker in the team and you sit on the bench. He played for 65 to 70 minutes on the wing against Hamburg on Saturday.
"The manager may think it proved him right because they won 8-0 but I think if you want to be successful against the best team in the knockout stages - when you come up against a Barcelona or a Real Madrid - you need Lewandowski.
"I'm not quite sure how much he will be on side with the manager because I think he's been treated pretty harshly in recent weeks."
UEFA Europa League 2015.02.19 1st Leg Fixtures
UEFA Europa League 2015.02.19 1st Leg Fixtures
Roma Vs Feyenoord Olimpico
Torino Vs Athletic Club
Trabzonspor Vs Napoli
PSV Vs Zenit St Petersburg
VfL Wolfsburg Vs Sporting Lisbon
Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk Vs Olympiakos
Aalborg BK Vs Club Brugge
BSC Young Boys Vs Everton
RSC Anderlecht Vs Dinamo Moscow
Sevilla Vs Borussia Mönchengladbach
Tottenham Hotspur Vs Fiorentina
Liverpool Vs Besiktas
Villarreal Vs FC Red Bull Salzburg
Guingamp Vs Dynamo Kyiv
Ajax Vs Legia Warsaw
Celtic Vs Internazionale
Roma Vs Feyenoord Olimpico
Torino Vs Athletic Club
Trabzonspor Vs Napoli
PSV Vs Zenit St Petersburg
VfL Wolfsburg Vs Sporting Lisbon
Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk Vs Olympiakos
Aalborg BK Vs Club Brugge
BSC Young Boys Vs Everton
RSC Anderlecht Vs Dinamo Moscow
Sevilla Vs Borussia Mönchengladbach
Tottenham Hotspur Vs Fiorentina
Liverpool Vs Besiktas
Villarreal Vs FC Red Bull Salzburg
Guingamp Vs Dynamo Kyiv
Ajax Vs Legia Warsaw
Celtic Vs Internazionale
Celtic 3-3 Inter: Gordon gaffe spared by hero Guidetti
Celtic secured a dramatic 3-3 draw against Inter in a sensational Europa League clash on Thursday.
A goalkeeping howler from Celtic's Craig Gordon looked like giving victory to Inter, as Rodrigo Palacio pounced on the stroke of half-time to restore Inter's lead in Glasgow.
The Scotland international dived at full stretch to collect a routine Gary Medel long ball with Palacio chasing in hope, only to drop the ball upon making contact with the ground, allowing the striker to tap into an empty net.
But Gordon would have breathed a sigh of relief when substitute John Guidetti chested down a clever ball from Liam Henderson before firing into the roof of the net in the third minute of stoppage time.
The draw sets up next week's second leg at San Siro fascinatingly and if the return clash is anything like the opener then fans are in for a treat.
Inter - who remain unbeaten in this season's competition - had earlier claimed a two-goal lead, as Xherdan Shaqiri and Palacio struck inside the first 12 minutes, but Celtic pegged them back quickly.
Stuart Armstrong first scored in the 24th minute, and less than 60 seconds later, Hugo Campagnaro netted an own goal, giving Ronny Delia's side all the momentum.
Palacio's fortunate second swung things in Inter's favour but Manchester City loanee Guidetti was on hand to level in dramatic circumstances at the end of a half Celtic controlled.
Inter defender Nemanja Vidic spoke of the "intimidating" Celtic Park atmosphere before kick-off, but the home fans were quickly silenced by Shaqiri.
The Switzerland international, who joined from Bayern Munich in January, fired his side in front after his initial first-time volley from a Zdravko Kuzmanovic ball was kept out by Gordon.
Shaqiri pounced on the rebound to slot under the goalkeeper and he then set up Inter's second, swinging a cross back into the penalty area after a corner had been cleared.
An attempted clearance hit Virgil van Dijk and spilled nicely for Palacio, who produced a composed finish to stun the hosts.
Celtic's revival was impressive, though, as the excellent Adam Matthews stormed towards the byline before cutting back across the face of goal in the 24th minute.
Armstrong was on hand to turn the loose ball into the bottom-left corner from 10 yards to mark his European debut for the club and the 22-year-old midfielder had a big hand in Celtic's second, too.
He put significant pressure on Campagnaro following Stefan Johansen's looped delivery into the box, as the Inter defender turned into his own net with goalkeeper Juan Pablo Carrizo rooted to the spot.
With two goals in a minute, the atmosphere ramped up and Leigh Griffiths and Nir Biton could have put Celtic in front, only to waste headers.
Then, completely against the run of play, Inter regained their lead on the stroke of half-time as Gordon's error gave Palacio the easiest of finishes.
Gordon was tested early in the second half, but made a comfortable save to deny Palacio, and he then was alert enough to keep out an excellent curling strike from Shaqiri that was bending into the bottom-left corner.
An ambitious 40-yard effort from Biton nearly led to an equaliser for Celtic, but his fierce strike went just wide, while Gary Mackay-Steven also tried his luck, only to find Carrizo equal to the task.
Henderson almost made an immediate impact, but could only shoot at Carrizo as Celtic's hopes looked dashed.
Guidetti - given his Manchester City debut by now Inter coach Roberto Mancini - was also thrown into the fray for the hosts.
Mancini wished Guidetti, who had not scored in 10 games, did not find his scoring touch prior to the game but his prayers went unanswered as the Sweden international came back to haunt his former boss with a stylish half-volley inside the area that, fittingly, ensured both sides shared the spoils.
Celtic secured a dramatic 3-3 draw against Inter in a sensational Europa League clash on Thursday.
A goalkeeping howler from Celtic's Craig Gordon looked like giving victory to Inter, as Rodrigo Palacio pounced on the stroke of half-time to restore Inter's lead in Glasgow.
The Scotland international dived at full stretch to collect a routine Gary Medel long ball with Palacio chasing in hope, only to drop the ball upon making contact with the ground, allowing the striker to tap into an empty net.
But Gordon would have breathed a sigh of relief when substitute John Guidetti chested down a clever ball from Liam Henderson before firing into the roof of the net in the third minute of stoppage time.
The draw sets up next week's second leg at San Siro fascinatingly and if the return clash is anything like the opener then fans are in for a treat.
Inter - who remain unbeaten in this season's competition - had earlier claimed a two-goal lead, as Xherdan Shaqiri and Palacio struck inside the first 12 minutes, but Celtic pegged them back quickly.
Stuart Armstrong first scored in the 24th minute, and less than 60 seconds later, Hugo Campagnaro netted an own goal, giving Ronny Delia's side all the momentum.
Palacio's fortunate second swung things in Inter's favour but Manchester City loanee Guidetti was on hand to level in dramatic circumstances at the end of a half Celtic controlled.
Inter defender Nemanja Vidic spoke of the "intimidating" Celtic Park atmosphere before kick-off, but the home fans were quickly silenced by Shaqiri.
The Switzerland international, who joined from Bayern Munich in January, fired his side in front after his initial first-time volley from a Zdravko Kuzmanovic ball was kept out by Gordon.
Shaqiri pounced on the rebound to slot under the goalkeeper and he then set up Inter's second, swinging a cross back into the penalty area after a corner had been cleared.
An attempted clearance hit Virgil van Dijk and spilled nicely for Palacio, who produced a composed finish to stun the hosts.
Celtic's revival was impressive, though, as the excellent Adam Matthews stormed towards the byline before cutting back across the face of goal in the 24th minute.
Armstrong was on hand to turn the loose ball into the bottom-left corner from 10 yards to mark his European debut for the club and the 22-year-old midfielder had a big hand in Celtic's second, too.
He put significant pressure on Campagnaro following Stefan Johansen's looped delivery into the box, as the Inter defender turned into his own net with goalkeeper Juan Pablo Carrizo rooted to the spot.
With two goals in a minute, the atmosphere ramped up and Leigh Griffiths and Nir Biton could have put Celtic in front, only to waste headers.
Then, completely against the run of play, Inter regained their lead on the stroke of half-time as Gordon's error gave Palacio the easiest of finishes.
Gordon was tested early in the second half, but made a comfortable save to deny Palacio, and he then was alert enough to keep out an excellent curling strike from Shaqiri that was bending into the bottom-left corner.
An ambitious 40-yard effort from Biton nearly led to an equaliser for Celtic, but his fierce strike went just wide, while Gary Mackay-Steven also tried his luck, only to find Carrizo equal to the task.
Henderson almost made an immediate impact, but could only shoot at Carrizo as Celtic's hopes looked dashed.
Guidetti - given his Manchester City debut by now Inter coach Roberto Mancini - was also thrown into the fray for the hosts.
Mancini wished Guidetti, who had not scored in 10 games, did not find his scoring touch prior to the game but his prayers went unanswered as the Sweden international came back to haunt his former boss with a stylish half-volley inside the area that, fittingly, ensured both sides shared the spoils.
Sevilla 1-0 Borussia Monchengladbach: Iborra bags vital winner
Sevilla secured an important first-leg advantage as they beat Borussia Monchengladbach 1-0 in the first leg of their Europa League clash on Thursday.
The German side travelled to the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan full of confidence and made the reigning champions battle, but the hosts eventually made the most of their second-half improvement.
Gladbach saw several fine chances go begging in the first hour, with Sevilla goalkeeper Sergio Rico catching the eye, but Unai Emery's men capitalised in the 70th minute, Vicente Iborra scoring the all-important goal.
It was evident from the start that Sevilla were going to be in for a tough 90 minutes as the hosts struggled to dictate proceedings in a first half of few chances.
It took 20 minutes for the first opportunity to fall and Sevilla were grateful for the quick reflexes of Rico, who got down to his right to palm away Christoph Kramer's 18-yard half-volley.
Sevilla did look particularly dangerous on the break, though Gladbach continued to cause problems and Rico was tested again with 34 minutes on the clock, denying Fabian Johnson from point-blank range.
The home side began the second half better, but Gladbach wasted another glorious chance four minutes after the break, as Oscar Wendt inexplicably blasted wide with only Rico to beat.
Emery's men eventually took charge, though, finally breaking the deadlock 20 minutes from time, as Iborra stroked home Diogo Figueiras' well-placed cut-back.
A dominant Sevilla poured men forward in the latter stages in a desperate search for a second, though they were forced to settle for a slender 1-0 win.
Sevilla secured an important first-leg advantage as they beat Borussia Monchengladbach 1-0 in the first leg of their Europa League clash on Thursday.
The German side travelled to the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan full of confidence and made the reigning champions battle, but the hosts eventually made the most of their second-half improvement.
Gladbach saw several fine chances go begging in the first hour, with Sevilla goalkeeper Sergio Rico catching the eye, but Unai Emery's men capitalised in the 70th minute, Vicente Iborra scoring the all-important goal.
It was evident from the start that Sevilla were going to be in for a tough 90 minutes as the hosts struggled to dictate proceedings in a first half of few chances.
It took 20 minutes for the first opportunity to fall and Sevilla were grateful for the quick reflexes of Rico, who got down to his right to palm away Christoph Kramer's 18-yard half-volley.
Sevilla did look particularly dangerous on the break, though Gladbach continued to cause problems and Rico was tested again with 34 minutes on the clock, denying Fabian Johnson from point-blank range.
The home side began the second half better, but Gladbach wasted another glorious chance four minutes after the break, as Oscar Wendt inexplicably blasted wide with only Rico to beat.
Emery's men eventually took charge, though, finally breaking the deadlock 20 minutes from time, as Iborra stroked home Diogo Figueiras' well-placed cut-back.
A dominant Sevilla poured men forward in the latter stages in a desperate search for a second, though they were forced to settle for a slender 1-0 win.
Liverpool 1-0 Besiktas: Late Balotelli penalty gives Reds the advantage
A Mario Balotelli penalty gave Liverpool the advantage in their Europa League last-32 tie as they beat Besiktas 1-0 at Anfield.
The Reds, who were without injured captain Steven Gerrard, looked to have wasted the best chance for a winner on the night shortly after half-time when Adam Lallana shot over the bar from just six yards out.
But Brendan Rodgers's men pushed on in search of a goal as the second period wore on and finally got a clear opportunity when Jordon Ibe was brought down in the box by Ramon Motta and Balotelli finished with typical aplomb.
Gerrard was sidelined with a hamstring injury, ruling him out of a reunion with Besiktas frontman Demba Ba, who – then with Chelsea - pounced on a now-infamous slip by the Liverpool captain to contribute to the downfall of the Reds' Premier League title challenge last season.
Nevertheless, it was the hosts who made the early running and Daniel Sturridge drew a save from goalkeeper Gonen with a close-range strike in the opening four minutes after some trickery in the Besiktas box.
An intruder on the pitch caused a momentary delay before the visitors' first chance fell the way of midfielder Veli Kavlak but his shot was dragged wide of the left-hand post.
Kavlak came close once again shortly after the half-hour mark when he headed wide from a corner and Simon Mignolet had to get down well to keep out an effort from Ba after the Senegalese had been sent clean through on goal – the goalkeeper demonstrating what he should have done against Chelsea back in April.
And so it was Besiktas who enjoyed the better goalscoring opportunities in a first half that saw Liverpool have the majority of the ball, although Sturridge curled over a free kick and Moreno forced Gonen to tip over with a stunning 30-yard strike.
Jordan Henderson pulled wide from another set-piece with Gonen flat-footed before the interval and Liverpool started the second half on the front foot but Lallana scooped a glorious chance to break the deadlock over the crossbar following a mix-up between the keeper and Pedro Franco.
Manager Rodgers brought on Balotelli to give his side a greater attacking presence with just over an hour on the clock and the Italian was almost instantly involved, curling a free kick into the arms of Gonen.
Sturridge saw a similar set-piece kept out 10 minutes later and it was turning into a mightily frustrating outing for Liverpool until Ibe was brought down in the box late on.
Balotelli stepped up - after some discussion with stand-in skipper Henderson - to coolly slot into the bottom right-hand corner and send Liverpool to Turkey next week with a slim advantage.
A Mario Balotelli penalty gave Liverpool the advantage in their Europa League last-32 tie as they beat Besiktas 1-0 at Anfield.
The Reds, who were without injured captain Steven Gerrard, looked to have wasted the best chance for a winner on the night shortly after half-time when Adam Lallana shot over the bar from just six yards out.
But Brendan Rodgers's men pushed on in search of a goal as the second period wore on and finally got a clear opportunity when Jordon Ibe was brought down in the box by Ramon Motta and Balotelli finished with typical aplomb.
Gerrard was sidelined with a hamstring injury, ruling him out of a reunion with Besiktas frontman Demba Ba, who – then with Chelsea - pounced on a now-infamous slip by the Liverpool captain to contribute to the downfall of the Reds' Premier League title challenge last season.
Nevertheless, it was the hosts who made the early running and Daniel Sturridge drew a save from goalkeeper Gonen with a close-range strike in the opening four minutes after some trickery in the Besiktas box.
An intruder on the pitch caused a momentary delay before the visitors' first chance fell the way of midfielder Veli Kavlak but his shot was dragged wide of the left-hand post.
Kavlak came close once again shortly after the half-hour mark when he headed wide from a corner and Simon Mignolet had to get down well to keep out an effort from Ba after the Senegalese had been sent clean through on goal – the goalkeeper demonstrating what he should have done against Chelsea back in April.
And so it was Besiktas who enjoyed the better goalscoring opportunities in a first half that saw Liverpool have the majority of the ball, although Sturridge curled over a free kick and Moreno forced Gonen to tip over with a stunning 30-yard strike.
Jordan Henderson pulled wide from another set-piece with Gonen flat-footed before the interval and Liverpool started the second half on the front foot but Lallana scooped a glorious chance to break the deadlock over the crossbar following a mix-up between the keeper and Pedro Franco.
Manager Rodgers brought on Balotelli to give his side a greater attacking presence with just over an hour on the clock and the Italian was almost instantly involved, curling a free kick into the arms of Gonen.
Sturridge saw a similar set-piece kept out 10 minutes later and it was turning into a mightily frustrating outing for Liverpool until Ibe was brought down in the box late on.
Balotelli stepped up - after some discussion with stand-in skipper Henderson - to coolly slot into the bottom right-hand corner and send Liverpool to Turkey next week with a slim advantage.
Tottenham 1-1 Fiorentina: Soldado strikes but Spurs denied
Tottenham were pegged back by Fiorentina as they drew 1-1 at White Hart Lane in the first leg of their Europa League last-32 tie.
Roberto Soldado, restored to the starting lineup, gave Spurs the lead with a superb goal early in the first half and Mauricio Pochettino's men had several chances to score again.
But Soldado was partly culpable for the Fiorentina equaliser, bringing down Joaquin before the subsequent free kick fell kindly for Jose Basanta to score a vital away goal.
Nacer Chadli struck the crossbar late in the first half for Tottenham but their Serie A opponents matched them throughout the second period.
Vincenzo Montella's Fiorentina were good value for extending their unbeaten to nine matches as the Premier League team's earlier rhythm eluded them.
Soldado slipped a clever pass through the Fiorentina defence for Chadli to draw a sharp save from Ciprian Tatarusanu and the Spain international fired his team ahead in style from the resulting corner. Paulinho's outswinging delivery found Soldado in ample room 15 yards from goal and the striker swivelled to rifle home an excellent volley.
On-loan Chelsea winger Mohamed Salah had an attempt blocked by Jan Vertonghen on a rare moment of encouragement amid a torrid opening half-hour for Fiorentina.
Tottenham playmaker Christian Eriksen lifted over from 18 yards before Soldado sent an overhead kick into Tatarusanu's arms.
The hosts found repeated joy down the right flank, with Andros Townsend cutting in to see a shot deflect wide in the 31st minute but Basanta put his troubles on the left of Fiorentina's back three to one side when he equalised nine minutes before half-time.
Matias Fernandez whipped a vicious free kick towards the near post, Lloris's punch struck Fiorentina defender Stefan Savic on the back and dropped to leave Basanta with a simple finish.
Pochettino's team almost restored their lead on the stroke of half-time when Tatarusanu kept out a Soldado header from Kyle Walker's cross and Chadli turned the rebound against the underside of the crossbar.
Salah whipped an effort narrowly wide from the edge of the box as Fiorentina began the second period in far more encouraging fashion.
In the 56th minute, Eriksen found himself crowded out by a visiting defence showing far greater composure and restricting Tottenham to half chances.
It persuaded Pochettino to send top scorer Harry Kane on for Chadli midway through the half but the home team were almost exposed at the back as Mario Gomez cut in past Federico Fazio to blast over.
Paulinho's influence had waned since the early action but the Tottenham midfielder made a well-timed run into the box in the 72nd minute, only for Tatarusanu to save once more.
Fiorentina came closest to snatching the win as time ticked down - the impressive Joaquin slipping a pass to substitute Marcos Alonso, whose cross from the left channel flashed agonisingly past Gomez's outstretched boot - but Montella will be the more content coach ahead of next week's return.
Tottenham were pegged back by Fiorentina as they drew 1-1 at White Hart Lane in the first leg of their Europa League last-32 tie.
Roberto Soldado, restored to the starting lineup, gave Spurs the lead with a superb goal early in the first half and Mauricio Pochettino's men had several chances to score again.
But Soldado was partly culpable for the Fiorentina equaliser, bringing down Joaquin before the subsequent free kick fell kindly for Jose Basanta to score a vital away goal.
Nacer Chadli struck the crossbar late in the first half for Tottenham but their Serie A opponents matched them throughout the second period.
Vincenzo Montella's Fiorentina were good value for extending their unbeaten to nine matches as the Premier League team's earlier rhythm eluded them.
Soldado slipped a clever pass through the Fiorentina defence for Chadli to draw a sharp save from Ciprian Tatarusanu and the Spain international fired his team ahead in style from the resulting corner. Paulinho's outswinging delivery found Soldado in ample room 15 yards from goal and the striker swivelled to rifle home an excellent volley.
On-loan Chelsea winger Mohamed Salah had an attempt blocked by Jan Vertonghen on a rare moment of encouragement amid a torrid opening half-hour for Fiorentina.
Tottenham playmaker Christian Eriksen lifted over from 18 yards before Soldado sent an overhead kick into Tatarusanu's arms.
The hosts found repeated joy down the right flank, with Andros Townsend cutting in to see a shot deflect wide in the 31st minute but Basanta put his troubles on the left of Fiorentina's back three to one side when he equalised nine minutes before half-time.
Matias Fernandez whipped a vicious free kick towards the near post, Lloris's punch struck Fiorentina defender Stefan Savic on the back and dropped to leave Basanta with a simple finish.
Pochettino's team almost restored their lead on the stroke of half-time when Tatarusanu kept out a Soldado header from Kyle Walker's cross and Chadli turned the rebound against the underside of the crossbar.
Salah whipped an effort narrowly wide from the edge of the box as Fiorentina began the second period in far more encouraging fashion.
In the 56th minute, Eriksen found himself crowded out by a visiting defence showing far greater composure and restricting Tottenham to half chances.
It persuaded Pochettino to send top scorer Harry Kane on for Chadli midway through the half but the home team were almost exposed at the back as Mario Gomez cut in past Federico Fazio to blast over.
Paulinho's influence had waned since the early action but the Tottenham midfielder made a well-timed run into the box in the 72nd minute, only for Tatarusanu to save once more.
Fiorentina came closest to snatching the win as time ticked down - the impressive Joaquin slipping a pass to substitute Marcos Alonso, whose cross from the left channel flashed agonisingly past Gomez's outstretched boot - but Montella will be the more content coach ahead of next week's return.
Wolfsburg 2-0 Sporting: Dost double puts Germans in control
Bas Dost scored twice as Wolfsburg saw off Sporting 2-0 in the first leg of their Europa League clash on Thursday.
After a cagey first half in which both sides failed to make much of an impact in the final third of the pitch, Wolfsburg came out all guns blazing in the second period, and Naldo took advantage of a sleeping Sporting midfield before teeing up Dost to fire the hosts into the lead after only 50 seconds.
From then onwards, the hosts looked in complete control, and 17 minutes later the Dutchman was on hand to slide in at the back post and poke in after a great cross from Kevin De Bruyne.
The two sides started the game matched evenly on paper, with both in scintillating form domestically, and that is exactly how the first half played out, with both looking impressive at the back but unable to make much of an impact in the final third of the pitch.
That all changed in the second half, however, with Wolfsburg taking advantage of a Sporting midfield that seemed to be half asleep to fire in the first goal of the game with less than a minute on the clock.
Naldo pushed forward, muscling his way past Oriol Rosell with ease before sending a great through-ball into the path of Dost, who showed great skill and composure to calmly slot the ball past Rui Patricio and into the bottom right-hand corner of the net.
The goal seemed to hit Sporting hard, who looked increasingly nervous at the back as the game wore on. The poor performance of the back four allowed De Bruyne and Andre Schurrle to run riot in the final third of the pitch, and the two former Chelsea players would prove to play an important role in the second half.
Schurrle forced Patricio into several good saves, whilst De Bruyne peppered the Sporting box with a plethora of wonderful crosses, one of which would prove to set up his side's winning goal.
A brilliant curling cross beat two defenders before finding Dost at the back post, and the Dutchman was easily able to tap the ball past Patricio with a sliding toe-poke.
From then onwards, Sporting never looked as if they were going to be able to find a way back into the game, with Wolfsburg's defence performing extremely well. The hosts had further chances to extend their lead, with Dost and Schurrle both going incredibly close to scoring, but Patricio put in a great shift in between the sticks to give his side a very slim chance of overturning the deficit in the second leg at Estadio Jose Alvalade next week.
Bas Dost scored twice as Wolfsburg saw off Sporting 2-0 in the first leg of their Europa League clash on Thursday.
After a cagey first half in which both sides failed to make much of an impact in the final third of the pitch, Wolfsburg came out all guns blazing in the second period, and Naldo took advantage of a sleeping Sporting midfield before teeing up Dost to fire the hosts into the lead after only 50 seconds.
From then onwards, the hosts looked in complete control, and 17 minutes later the Dutchman was on hand to slide in at the back post and poke in after a great cross from Kevin De Bruyne.
The two sides started the game matched evenly on paper, with both in scintillating form domestically, and that is exactly how the first half played out, with both looking impressive at the back but unable to make much of an impact in the final third of the pitch.
That all changed in the second half, however, with Wolfsburg taking advantage of a Sporting midfield that seemed to be half asleep to fire in the first goal of the game with less than a minute on the clock.
Naldo pushed forward, muscling his way past Oriol Rosell with ease before sending a great through-ball into the path of Dost, who showed great skill and composure to calmly slot the ball past Rui Patricio and into the bottom right-hand corner of the net.
The goal seemed to hit Sporting hard, who looked increasingly nervous at the back as the game wore on. The poor performance of the back four allowed De Bruyne and Andre Schurrle to run riot in the final third of the pitch, and the two former Chelsea players would prove to play an important role in the second half.
Schurrle forced Patricio into several good saves, whilst De Bruyne peppered the Sporting box with a plethora of wonderful crosses, one of which would prove to set up his side's winning goal.
A brilliant curling cross beat two defenders before finding Dost at the back post, and the Dutchman was easily able to tap the ball past Patricio with a sliding toe-poke.
From then onwards, Sporting never looked as if they were going to be able to find a way back into the game, with Wolfsburg's defence performing extremely well. The hosts had further chances to extend their lead, with Dost and Schurrle both going incredibly close to scoring, but Patricio put in a great shift in between the sticks to give his side a very slim chance of overturning the deficit in the second leg at Estadio Jose Alvalade next week.
Roma 1-1 Feyenoord: Gervinho strikes but Garcia's side draw again
Roma were held to another draw on Thursday as Colin Kazim-Richards cancelled out Gervinho's strike in the first leg of their Europa League clash with Feyenoord.
A clever finish from Gervinho gave the Giallorossi the lead in the first half, despite the visitors seeing more of the ball, but they were pegged back after the interval as Kazim-Richards netted a potentially huge away goal for the Dutch outfit.
The build-up to the game was marred by violence and clashes between sections of the Feyenoord support and local police, and Roma moved quickly to make football the talking point in the first half.
Francesco Totti released Daniele Verde down the right with a fantastic pass after seven minutes, but Gervinho showed a lack of conviction as he fired wide from the youngster’s cross under pressure from Luke Wilkshire.
However, Gervinho did not make the same mistake when the next opportunity came his way as he added a neat finish to Vasilis Torosidis' cross with 22 minutes on the clock.
The Dutch side controlled possession for long periods throughout the first half but they lacked penetration, with Lukasz Skorupski only forced into one routine save from Kazim-Richards.
The second half began in the same vein, but within 10 minutes of the restart Feyenoord got their goal.
Skorupski did superbly to turn Lex Immers’ header onto the post, but Kazim-Richards was on hand to tap home on the rebound, though replays suggest he did so from an offside position.
Rudi Garcia introduced Seydou Doumbia as he encouraged his side to look for another goal, but, when chances fell the way of the former CSKA Moscow man, he was unable to make them count.
A brilliant challenge from Khalid Boulahrouz denied him in the 85th minute, and, from the resultant corner, he failed to add a simple finish to Seydou Keita's knockdown.
There was to be no late winner, leaving the tie delicately balanced ahead of Roma's visit to the intimidating De Kuip for the second leg next week.
Roma were held to another draw on Thursday as Colin Kazim-Richards cancelled out Gervinho's strike in the first leg of their Europa League clash with Feyenoord.
A clever finish from Gervinho gave the Giallorossi the lead in the first half, despite the visitors seeing more of the ball, but they were pegged back after the interval as Kazim-Richards netted a potentially huge away goal for the Dutch outfit.
The build-up to the game was marred by violence and clashes between sections of the Feyenoord support and local police, and Roma moved quickly to make football the talking point in the first half.
Francesco Totti released Daniele Verde down the right with a fantastic pass after seven minutes, but Gervinho showed a lack of conviction as he fired wide from the youngster’s cross under pressure from Luke Wilkshire.
However, Gervinho did not make the same mistake when the next opportunity came his way as he added a neat finish to Vasilis Torosidis' cross with 22 minutes on the clock.
The Dutch side controlled possession for long periods throughout the first half but they lacked penetration, with Lukasz Skorupski only forced into one routine save from Kazim-Richards.
The second half began in the same vein, but within 10 minutes of the restart Feyenoord got their goal.
Skorupski did superbly to turn Lex Immers’ header onto the post, but Kazim-Richards was on hand to tap home on the rebound, though replays suggest he did so from an offside position.
Rudi Garcia introduced Seydou Doumbia as he encouraged his side to look for another goal, but, when chances fell the way of the former CSKA Moscow man, he was unable to make them count.
A brilliant challenge from Khalid Boulahrouz denied him in the 85th minute, and, from the resultant corner, he failed to add a simple finish to Seydou Keita's knockdown.
There was to be no late winner, leaving the tie delicately balanced ahead of Roma's visit to the intimidating De Kuip for the second leg next week.
Trabzonspor 0-4 Napoli: Higuain on target as Benitez's men sieze control
Gonzalo Higuain was among the goalscorers as Napoli eased to a 4-0 win over Trabzonspor in the first leg of their Europa League tie on Thursday.
Goals from Henrique, Higuain and Manolo Gabbiadini did the damage for the visitors in the last-32 clash as they surged into a 3-0 lead after just half an hour.
Duvan Zapata then added a fourth to all but ensure Napoli's progression to the last 16 following a routine success in Turkey.
Henrique - making a rare start in Benitez's defence - opened the scoring when he made the most of a blocked Kalidou Koulibaly shot to produce a looping header past Hakan Arikan.
Gabbiadini then laid on the second for Higuain as the Italian burst through the home defence before squaring for the striker to finish.
It was then the turn for Gabbiadini to get on the scoresheet, as the forward scored his fourth goal since moving from Sampdoria.
Following a first half in which Trabzonspor failed to register a shot on target, Oscar Cardozo then wasted his side's best opportunity after the break – skying an effort over the crossbar from close range.
Napoli continued to dominate going forward as Dries Mertens won, and subsequently spurned, a penalty five minutes from time.
However, the Serie A side were not to be denied a fourth as Zapata seized on Jose Callejon's saved effort in the last minute of stoppage time to tap home and round off the scoring.
It leaves Napoli in a dominant position ahead of next week's second leg at the San Paolo, while Ersun Yanal's men look set to exit the competition.
Gonzalo Higuain was among the goalscorers as Napoli eased to a 4-0 win over Trabzonspor in the first leg of their Europa League tie on Thursday.
Goals from Henrique, Higuain and Manolo Gabbiadini did the damage for the visitors in the last-32 clash as they surged into a 3-0 lead after just half an hour.
Duvan Zapata then added a fourth to all but ensure Napoli's progression to the last 16 following a routine success in Turkey.
Henrique - making a rare start in Benitez's defence - opened the scoring when he made the most of a blocked Kalidou Koulibaly shot to produce a looping header past Hakan Arikan.
Gabbiadini then laid on the second for Higuain as the Italian burst through the home defence before squaring for the striker to finish.
It was then the turn for Gabbiadini to get on the scoresheet, as the forward scored his fourth goal since moving from Sampdoria.
Following a first half in which Trabzonspor failed to register a shot on target, Oscar Cardozo then wasted his side's best opportunity after the break – skying an effort over the crossbar from close range.
Napoli continued to dominate going forward as Dries Mertens won, and subsequently spurned, a penalty five minutes from time.
However, the Serie A side were not to be denied a fourth as Zapata seized on Jose Callejon's saved effort in the last minute of stoppage time to tap home and round off the scoring.
It leaves Napoli in a dominant position ahead of next week's second leg at the San Paolo, while Ersun Yanal's men look set to exit the competition.
Young Boys 1-4 Everton: Lukaku hits hat-trick for 10-man Toffees
Everton seized a massive advantage in the first leg of their Europa League last-32 tie by beating Young Boys 4-1 in Switzerland, Romelu Lukaku hitting a hat-trick.
The Toffees attacked from the outset and, even with only 10 minutes gone, Guillaume Hoarau's excellent opening goal for the hosts came against the run of play, with Roberto Martinez's men hitting back before too long.
A header from Lukaku evened things up in the 24th minute before Seamus Coleman secured the lead moments later by finishing off a superb team move.
Despite suggestions of offside, Lukaku broke through the defence shortly before half-time to steal a second and the Belgian sealed his treble on the hour by driving down the left channel and finishing.
Everton faced a scare moments afterwards when John Stones was shown a red card for bringing down Hoarau in the penalty area but the striker smashed the resulting spot kick well over the bar and Roberto Martinez's men held out thereafter.
The result meant that Young Boys' seven-match winning streak in home European games was brought to an end, putting Everton in firm control of the tie.
Undaunted by their hosts' impressive home form, the Toffees twice went close early on but Hoarau made them pay for slack marking with nine minutes gone when, left in the clear 25 yards out, he despatched with ease beyond Tim Howard.
Lukaku and Ross Barkley tested Yvon Mvogo in Young Boys' goal before the Belgian deservedly levelled the scores.
Gareth Barry measured a left-wing cross, allowing Lukaku to hold off his marker and guide an accurate header in at the near post.
The game was turned on its head just four minutes later as intricate build-up play got Steven Naismith to the byeline and the Scot's drilled cross went through Mvogo, leaving Coleman to tap in on the stretch.
Hoarau tested Howard with a volley and flashed a header wide but Young Boys were caught on the counter as Everton took control after 39 minutes - Lukaku converting into an unguarded net after Barry's centre fell kindly.
A breathless first half ended with James McCarthy clearing Sekou Sanogo's effort off the line and the midfielder was perhaps lucky to only see a yellow card for a clash with Barkley shortly after the interval.
Everton were happy to sit on their two-goal lead but another counterattack reaped rewards three minutes before the hour as Lukaku raced clear on the end of Barkley's through-ball and dinked over the onrushing Mvogo.
Young Boys had a chance to reduce the deficit as Stones hauled Hoarau down inside the area - earning a red card - but the Frenchman's languid effort was blazed into the stand.
The hosts threw striker Alexander Gerndt on in an attempt to salvage something from the contest but they will need a footballing miracle to progress when the sides meet at Goodison Park next week.
Everton seized a massive advantage in the first leg of their Europa League last-32 tie by beating Young Boys 4-1 in Switzerland, Romelu Lukaku hitting a hat-trick.
The Toffees attacked from the outset and, even with only 10 minutes gone, Guillaume Hoarau's excellent opening goal for the hosts came against the run of play, with Roberto Martinez's men hitting back before too long.
A header from Lukaku evened things up in the 24th minute before Seamus Coleman secured the lead moments later by finishing off a superb team move.
Despite suggestions of offside, Lukaku broke through the defence shortly before half-time to steal a second and the Belgian sealed his treble on the hour by driving down the left channel and finishing.
Everton faced a scare moments afterwards when John Stones was shown a red card for bringing down Hoarau in the penalty area but the striker smashed the resulting spot kick well over the bar and Roberto Martinez's men held out thereafter.
The result meant that Young Boys' seven-match winning streak in home European games was brought to an end, putting Everton in firm control of the tie.
Undaunted by their hosts' impressive home form, the Toffees twice went close early on but Hoarau made them pay for slack marking with nine minutes gone when, left in the clear 25 yards out, he despatched with ease beyond Tim Howard.
Lukaku and Ross Barkley tested Yvon Mvogo in Young Boys' goal before the Belgian deservedly levelled the scores.
Gareth Barry measured a left-wing cross, allowing Lukaku to hold off his marker and guide an accurate header in at the near post.
The game was turned on its head just four minutes later as intricate build-up play got Steven Naismith to the byeline and the Scot's drilled cross went through Mvogo, leaving Coleman to tap in on the stretch.
Hoarau tested Howard with a volley and flashed a header wide but Young Boys were caught on the counter as Everton took control after 39 minutes - Lukaku converting into an unguarded net after Barry's centre fell kindly.
A breathless first half ended with James McCarthy clearing Sekou Sanogo's effort off the line and the midfielder was perhaps lucky to only see a yellow card for a clash with Barkley shortly after the interval.
Everton were happy to sit on their two-goal lead but another counterattack reaped rewards three minutes before the hour as Lukaku raced clear on the end of Barkley's through-ball and dinked over the onrushing Mvogo.
Young Boys had a chance to reduce the deficit as Stones hauled Hoarau down inside the area - earning a red card - but the Frenchman's languid effort was blazed into the stand.
The hosts threw striker Alexander Gerndt on in an attempt to salvage something from the contest but they will need a footballing miracle to progress when the sides meet at Goodison Park next week.
Arsenal to lay on travel for Manchester United cup tie
Arsenal have announced that they will provide a subsidised train and extra coaches for fans travelling to the club’s FA Cup quarter-final tie with Manchester United at Old Trafford.
The Gunners were drawn to face Louis van Gaal's side after they defeated Middlesbrough 2-0 in the fifth round, while United beat Preston 3-1.
The clash was moved to March 9 – a Monday – for live television coverage but the last train for London leaves at 21:15GMT, leading to the prospect of thousands of Gunners fans being left stranded in Manchester.
However, Arsenal have now announced that they have chartered a train for 450 fans to make the journey and also plan to lay on coaches for those who intend to travel to the match.
"We appreciate it is going to be difficult for supporters to get home to London from the game and so we have taken these steps to ensure fans can come and support the team and know they have a safe and relatively low cost journey home," supporter liaison officer Mark Brindle said in a statement on the club's official website.
Arsenal have announced that they will provide a subsidised train and extra coaches for fans travelling to the club’s FA Cup quarter-final tie with Manchester United at Old Trafford.
The Gunners were drawn to face Louis van Gaal's side after they defeated Middlesbrough 2-0 in the fifth round, while United beat Preston 3-1.
The clash was moved to March 9 – a Monday – for live television coverage but the last train for London leaves at 21:15GMT, leading to the prospect of thousands of Gunners fans being left stranded in Manchester.
However, Arsenal have now announced that they have chartered a train for 450 fans to make the journey and also plan to lay on coaches for those who intend to travel to the match.
"We appreciate it is going to be difficult for supporters to get home to London from the game and so we have taken these steps to ensure fans can come and support the team and know they have a safe and relatively low cost journey home," supporter liaison officer Mark Brindle said in a statement on the club's official website.
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